Axa Atlas Design
- Case Atlas Lock Design
- Client AXA
- Industry Mobility
Modyn and AXA Allegion have worked together for many years, sharing a common goal of making cycling safer. Improving security in the e-bike market is an ongoing challenge, and we were impressed by AXA’s vision for the Atlas from the outset.
We were asked to help define the look and feel of the next-generation ring lock for the AXA (and Trelock) brands, combining premium security with intuitive everyday use.
The AXA Atlas is a robust ring lock with Security Level 14 and an optimized compact design, making it highly suitable for modern e-bikes. The lock features a high-tech cylinder, anti-drill protection, and a hardened steel square shackle for optimal theft protection. Its fully welded housing enhances security, while the ergonomic operation ensures ease of use. In addition, the lock is compatible with a ULC plug-in chain or UPI plug-in cable for added security.
A key insight was the need to balance brand evolution with innovation. The design had to work for both AXA and Trelock, while still creating a clear and premium product identity. By streamlining graphics and branding, the product communicates the brand more prominently, while security information is kept clear and separate.
The project also showed how important compact packaging is in a modern e-bike lock. The internal hardware had to be fitted efficiently within very limited space. Through close collaboration with Allegion’s engineering teams, multiple CAD iterations, and 3D printed prototypes, the final design direction was carefully validated for manufacturability, fit, and feasibility.
This phase focused on defining product requirements, brand fit, and design DNA for the new bicycle frame lock. Moodboards and visual research guided the design direction, while compatibility and usability checks ensured the lock would fit and function well across a wide range of bicycle types.
The initial brief was to design two plastic housings for the locking mechanism, suitable for both of Allegion’s bicycle security brands: AXA and Trelock. The project started with the development of both a Standard and a Premium version, sharing the same internal components. As the project progressed, the focus shifted towards further refining the Premium variant.
The design approach balanced brand evolution with innovation. Graphics and branding were streamlined, placing the brand identity prominently at the center while clearly separating security information to improve communication. The housing features a modern, clean design language with crisp lines and refined surfaces, allowing it to integrate seamlessly with contemporary bicycle aesthetics.
With the design direction approved by Allegion, we moved into the 3D CAD development of the ring lock housing. Close collaboration with the engineering teams ensured all technical requirements were aligned from the outset. This led to a meticulous design process with multiple iterations, focused on packaging the internal hardware as efficiently as possible within the limited available space.
Achieving a compact layout down to the millimeter was a challenging but rewarding task. Throughout the development process, prototypes were 3D printed to validate manufacturability, fit, and feasibility. The final CAD package was delivered to Allegion’s engineering team, providing a solid foundation for further development towards production.
